OBJECTIVETo explore the influence of Yanghe decoction on the expression of HIF-1alpha mRNA in osteoarthritis (OA), so as to study mechanisms of Yanghe decoction in the improvement of cartilagedegeneration.

METHODSThirty New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into 3 groups: control group (10 rabbits), OA model group (10 rabbits) and Yanghe decoction treatment group (10 rabbits). The OA models were established by using Hulth method. The sections were stained with Safranin O for histological examination. Each sample was evaluated the cartilages histological characteristics according to the method of Mankin. Fluorescent quantitative PCR was used to detect the expression of HIF-1alpha mRNA in each group.

RESULTSThere were significant differences in the Mankin score between the control group and the OA model group (P = 0.005), either between the OA model group and the Yanghe decoction treatment group (P = 0.003). Fluorescent quantitative PCR indicated that HIF-1alpha mRNA significantly increased in the OA model group compared to that of the control group (P = 0.035), but that expression was much lower in Yanghe decoction treatment group compared to that of the OA model group (P = 0.039).

CONCLUSIONThe expression of HIF-1alpha mRNA plays an important role in OA. Yanghe decoction is effective to protect the articular cartilage, which is achieved through regulating the expression of HIF-1alpha mRNA.